5 HR Crabbing & Fishing Trip on Chesapeake Bay
There's something magical about spending a full day on the Chesapeake Bay, and Captain David's 5-hour combo trip gives you the best of both worlds. You'll start your morning pulling crab pots and learning the ins and outs of blue crabbing before switching gears to target some of the Eastern Shore's most popular fish species. This isn't your typical charter - it's a hands-on adventure where you'll come away with dinner and a whole lot of new skills. Perfect for families looking to introduce kids to the water or seasoned anglers wanting to try something different.
What to Expect on the Water
Captain David knows these tributaries like the back of his hand, and he's been working these crabbing grounds for years. You'll spend the first half of your trip learning proper crabbing techniques, from baiting lines to identifying keepers versus throwbacks. The captain will walk you through Maryland's crabbing regulations so you know exactly what you can take home. Once you've got your bushel limit or the crabs slow down, it's time to break out the fishing rods. The transition from crabbing to fishing keeps the day fresh and gives everyone on board something to look forward to. With only 4 guests maximum, you'll get plenty of one-on-one instruction whether you're 8 or 80 years old.
Gear Setup & Techniques
All your fishing and crabbing gear is provided, so you can travel light. For crabbing, you'll be working with traditional trotlines and handlines baited with chicken necks or fish heads - the blue crabs can't resist them. The captain will show you the proper technique for pulling lines slowly and scooping crabs with the net before they drop off. When it's time to fish, you'll switch to medium-action rods with live bait rigs and bottom fishing setups. The waters around the Eastern Shore are perfect for targeting bottom-dwelling species like catfish and perch, while the snakehead action happens closer to structure and vegetation. Captain David adjusts techniques based on tides, weather, and what's biting that day.
Customer Stories
"highly recommended!" - Elizabeth
Top Catches This Season
White Perch are the bread and butter of Chesapeake Bay fishing, and for good reason. These scrappy fighters typically run 8-12 inches and put up a great fight on light tackle. They school up around structure and drop-offs, making them perfect targets after you finish crabbing. Spring through fall offers the best action, with summer being peak season when they're most active. What makes perch so popular with families is their willingness to bite and their excellent table fare - they're sweet, flaky, and perfect for a fish fry.
White Catfish in the Chesapeake system are often overlooked, but they shouldn't be. These native cats grow bigger than most people expect, with fish in the 2-3 pound range being common and some pushing 5 pounds or more. They're bottom feeders that love worms, cut bait, and chicken liver, making them perfect for beginners to target. Unlike their channel cat cousins, white catfish have a milder flavor and fewer muddy undertones. They bite best during warmer months and are especially active in the evening hours, which works perfectly for this trip's timing.
Great Snakehead might be the most exciting species you'll encounter on this trip. These invasive fish have become a customer favorite because they fight like nothing else in these waters. They're ambush predators that love cover, striking hard and making blistering runs when hooked. Snakehead can reach impressive sizes - 10 to 15 pounders aren't uncommon - and they're actually fantastic eating despite their intimidating appearance. Since there's no limit on snakehead and they're considered invasive, you can keep every one you catch. They're most active in warmer water and love areas with vegetation and structure.
Time to Book Your Spot
This top-rated combo trip fills up fast, especially during peak crab season from May through September. You'll walk away with a cooler full of blue crabs, hopefully some fish fillets, and memories that'll last a lifetime. Captain David's years of experience on these waters means you're getting insider knowledge you can't find anywhere else. Don't forget to bring that cooler and some ice - you'll need it for the bushel of crabs you're allowed to take home. Whether you're looking for a unique family outing or want to try something different from your usual fishing charter, this 5-hour adventure delivers on every front. Book now and discover why this trip keeps guests coming back season after season.